I have a specifically-customized XP x64 ISO that I use for dedicated rigs. Lean, mean, and seems to give the best performance for BOINC (although, Windows Server also works well)

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i have found that custom installs are best for performance and seem to have less problems(like crashing/BSOD,etc) I have a CD of xp x64 that i have basically everything removed and after i install it i just add whatever i need to get the task done.(most of the time all i have to do is install a driver or 2 and WCG and setup the network)

I did alittle testing one time when i had multiple rigs and i found that the installs that had the minimum really did have less problems and slightly better PPD.

So for all of you crunchers that have dedicated rigs you may want to consider using a stripped down OS.

I must say I like to use Windows Server, I have a couple copies I got for free, and they already have most things removed, and are even more stripped down than the XP install I use. It can make for a fine desktop OS, but IMO it makes for a quite good OS for a, well, server, or dedicated WCG rig.

All I typically do with it is set up WiFi, install BOINC, and call it ready to go

I must say I like to use Windows Server, I have a couple copies I got for free, and they already have most things removed, and are even more stripped down than the XP install I use. It can make for a fine desktop OS, but IMO it makes for a quite good OS for a, well, server, or dedicated WCG rig.

All I typically do with it is set up WiFi, install BOINC, and call it ready to go

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I may have to consider using windows server for a build just to try it out,but i'm not sure that i want to stray away from the ol'leliable XP that i have been using.

on another note onedub sent the ram out but i have yet heard anything from BLK on the CPU
I know he said it would be next week(that would be this week) before he could send it out but the sooner i get another cruncher running the better.

You will need to read the instructions on bottom of page to get 240days. After 240days you will.. err.. get a black desktop background.

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thanks for the link i will look into it in alittle while. when i get my other rig up i maybe giving it a try. If i don't like it then i can always reinstall XP x64 as i won't have any info i don't want to lose

Passively it runs 30ºc at default voltages/clocks. I don't think I have any other fan. I can pull one from the CM case, but it kinda needs as much airflow as possible. Things get heated in there with everything under load.

i could see you being right but i based mine on if he was to run it at 3.6ghz@1.38v and i also set it alittle higher. I don't think i ever saw that CPU hit 45c even during the 4+ghz suicide clocks. But i have seen the CPU at 9c(Water cooling+low room temp+ice=amazing temps)